Organic produce Ð once out of reach for many recipients of public assistance due to price and location Ð may appear at more holiday dinners this year thanks to a new Farm Stand that the Alameda County Social Services Agency (SSA) is offering to its clients, staff and the public.

The CountyÕs Board of Supervisors recently approved a service agreement with Dig Deep Farms and Produce, a workforce program of the Alameda County Deputy Sheriffs Activities League (DSAL). The goal of this pilot project is to provide job training and employment to CalWORKs participants, while also making organic fruits and vegetables available to recipients of public assistance.

The Farm Stand began operation on Thursday, Dec. 19, outside of SSAÕs Hayward office, also known as the Eden Area Multi-Service Center. CalFresh recipients will be able to use their EBT cards to purchase healthy organic fruits vegetables and other offerings. Cash and credit cards will also be accepted.

ÒWe recognize that many of our clients live in food deserts and have little or no access to fresh fruits and vegetables. For the vast majority of the people we serve, organic produce has been priced out of reach,Ó said Lori A. Cox, the AgencyÕs director. ÒWe are thrilled to offer our clients, staff and the public the opportunity to purchase organic produce at reasonable prices right outside our doors.Ó